The ambitious proposal spans political, economic and security issues, both internal and external. According to Prodi's vision, the Commission would assume greater power over justice and immigration issues as well as foreign policy -- issues that traditionally have remained under national control. Saying, "Europe must speak with a single voice on all aspects of external relations," Prodi suggested replacing national government envoys to international bodies like the International Monetary Fund and the G7 with commission representatives from Brussels.
Two issues in particular, budgeting and taxation, will generate the most vocal opposition. Prodi's suggestion that Brussels should have greater control over national budgets probably sent chills down the spines of finance ministers throughout Europe. The proposal also opens the door to the idea of tax harmonization, which governments like those in London and Dublin have long opposed.
Just as national government officials are allergic to budget controls, the European public has shown tremendous resistance to any suggestions of direct taxation by Brussels. True to form, however, Prodi suggested that Brussels be given the power of direct taxation as well.
Two issues in particular, budgeting and taxation, will generate the most vocal opposition. Prodi's suggestion that Brussels should have greater control over national budgets probably sent chills down the spines of finance ministers throughout Europe. The proposal also opens the door to the idea of tax harmonization, which governments like those in London and Dublin have long opposed.
Just as national government officials are allergic to budget controls, the European public has shown tremendous resistance to any suggestions of direct taxation by Brussels. True to form, however, Prodi suggested that Brussels be given the power of direct taxation as well.